The Vine

Inspire to SERVE

On Tuesday, the 16th of August the Year 7 students had the privilege of hearing an important message from one of their peers, Ted Paige-Walker. Ted shared about his experience over the recent holidays where he served the community by visiting the homeless around the Bellarine with the Salvation Army Outreach Van and Captain Peter Hobbs. Ted explained that homelessness is a hidden issue in our community and explained how with the Salvation Army, and our College community, we could reach out to help.

He was joined by Captain Peter Hobbs and Andrew Allen, a Christian College staff member. The accounts shared by Captain Hobbs and Andrew provided students with an insight into the real people in our community who are experiencing homelessness and this had a profound impact on the students and staff in attendance.

The challenge for our students and families is to take action. We have been asked to donate beanies, scarves, gloves, all toiletries (soap, shampoo, toilet paper) and blankets. Ted encouraged the students by expressing how proud he would be to know that the items distributed by the Salvation Army Outreach Van were donated by 'his friends' in our community. This has now become part of the 7 for 7 program and there are incentives for students to participate in either donating or promoting donation. We also have plans to incorporate the Food Technology and Community Service electives.

Ted has continued to champion this cause throughout the term and also written a piece for the newsletter asking for assistance from our college community. He is an amazing example of faith in action and we are all proud of how he is leading the charge with our Year 7 students.